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Washington DC - The United States Senate today passed legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the 23rd Special Headquarters Troops and the 3133rd Signal Service Company, the WWII deception units popularly known as The “Ghost Army.” The efforts and contributions of these soldiers were kept classified for more than 50 years. Passage came via unanimous consent.

The Congressional Gold Medal is Congress's utmost expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions.

“These soldiers embodied the courage, skill, and bravery that our nation treasures in American heroes,” said Senator Edward Markey, (D-MA), who sponsored the bill in the Senate.

A similar bill passed in the House in May. Because of language changes, the Senate bill must go back to the House for final passage, which is expected to take place early in 2022 Then it will go to the president’s desk.

The soldiers who served in these units used inflatable tanks, sound effects and illusion to fool the Germans on the battlefields of Europe.